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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Can antioxidants help lower the risk of getting diabetes?

    Related Topics
    Endocrinology Nutrition Type 2 Diabetes
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    Carolien Koreneff

    Counsellor, Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Psychotherapist, Registered Nurse

    Carolien Koreneff is a Somatic (body-oriented) psychotherapist, Health Coach, Counsellor as well as a Credentialed Diabetes Educator with over 20 years experience. She currently sees … View Profile

    Some studies show that indeed antioxidants may reduce the risk of developing diabetes. However, I think the jury is still out on this subject and more studies will be required to really give an accurate answer on this topic.

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    Kaye Haslam

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    As a private practice Dietitian/Nutritionist with over 30 years experience I have a special interest in weight management & related health issues such as Diabetes, … View Profile

    No particular nutrients or food components alone can lower the risk of diabetes in susceptible people. However, overall lifestyle changes such as weight control and regular exercise are currently considered the best measures.

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    Ellen Moran

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    Ellen Moran is an Accredited Practising Dietitian who promotes credible nutrition information, tailored to your personal health goals and needs. She has a special interest … View Profile

    Although there are multiple studies on the key role antioxidants play in reducing risk of heart disease and cancer, the evidence so far is lacking in the role antioxidants play in diabetes risk. However, if wanting to decrease your diabetes risk, there are plenty of lifestyle factors that can help lower your risk, such as keeping your waist circumference below 94cm for men and 80cm for women, following a healthy eating regime, and aiming for 30 minutes of  exercise most days of the week.

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  • Allison Byrnes

    Nutritionist

    In my practice, I provide nutritional consulting services to individuals, groups, and businesses. I'm interested in the role good nutrition plays in a healthy mind … View Profile

    There are some studies that have shown an association between type II diabetes and oxidative stress, and also between higher antioxidant levels and a lowered risk of developing type II diabetes.
    However, this evidence is preliminary and I think the most useful message to take from this is that it's important to include fruit and vegetables (which contain antioxidants) as part of a balanced diet.

    To lower the risk of getting diabetes the main things to focus on would include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising and eating a healthy balanced diet.

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  • Dr Stephen Leow

    HealthShare Member

    There are no definitive studies that indicate that antioxidants can lower the risk of diabetes. However there appears to be a link between low level inflammation and diabetes. I would watch this space.

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